Why does the text return to the story of Ikemefuna after spending time discussing the traditions withe the harvest?

Ikefuna becomes such a large source of conflict, and is such a large part of the family's life that it's important for the reader to understand the extent of the relationships he's building before the sacrifice.

The celebration and the harvest are such small things, but they help us to understand the complexity of the village's customs and beliefs. Ikemefuna becomes a member of Okonkwo's family, but he's not family........ he's a sacrifice. Understanding these relationships sets the stage for understanding the aftermath of Ikemefuna's death.